Dear Students,
As we move further into the spring semester together, we do so with the blessings that our diverse religious communities bring to our campus through their many observances. The spring semester is full of spiritual energy, major holy days, celebrations, and commemorations. The diversity of religious and spiritual identities in our community is part of what makes Wellesley College so unique. Some of these observances include fasting from food and water, so let us extend some extra support and grace to students, faculty, and staff who may be fasting.
- Lent (Catholic/Protestant-Christian)
February 14 – March 28 - Ramadan (Muslim)
March 10 (eve) – April 10 (Eid al-Fitr) - Great Lent (Orthodox Christian)
March 18 – May 4 - Purim (Jewish)
March 24 - Holi (Hindu, Sikh, Jain)
March 24 (eve) – March 25 - Holy Week (Catholic/Protestant-Christian)
March 24 – March 31 - Hanamatsuri – Buddha’s Birthday
April 8 - Vaisakhi (Hindu, Sikh, Jain)
April 14 - Riḍván (Bahá’í)
April 20 – May 2 - Passover (Jewish)
April 22 (eve) – April 30 - Mahavir Jayanti (Jain)
April 21 - Hanuman Jayanti (Hindu)
April 23 - Beltane (Pagan)
May 1 - Holy Week (Orthodox Christian)
May 3 – May 5 - Yom HaShoah (Jewish)
May 6
As our religious communities create space for spiritual connection and remembrance, I hope the rest of us are enriched through our own pathways and practices. I invite us to engage with compassionate curiosity, and be mindful of how we can be present for one another at this time. These days provide us the opportunity to learn about one another’s values, culture, history, and ancient spiritual wisdom.
Wishing you peace and safety as you prepare to go on spring break in a few days.
Sheilah Shaw Horton
Vice President and Dean of Students
